In their first full day presenting their defense, attorneys representing Police Chief Chris Magnus, former Deputy Chief Lori Ritter and the city of Richmond called to the stand an African American police captain who praised Magnus’ leadership and rejected claims the chief or deputy chief are racists.

“I have no reason to believe (Magnus) has any animosity against any other races,” Capt. Anthony Williams testified Monday.

Williams’ detailed testimony covered the gamut of accusations made against Magnus and Ritter in the discrimination lawsuit filed by seven high-ranking African American police officials. Williams was present at many of the events at which Magnus and Ritter allegedly made racially tinged comments, as well as during high-level meetings at which promotions policies were discussed.

The plaintiffs are suing Magnus and Ritter, both Caucasians, and the city for alleged discriminatory practices and banter that created a hostile work environment.

Williams portrayed the gulf between Magnus and the command staff he inherited when he came aboard in 2006 as motivated in part by a desire to retain silos of power and resist Magnus’ sweeping changes in policing policies.

Williams testified that six months after Magnus’ arrival, by which time he and the plaintiffs were at odds, one plaintiff, Lt. Arnold Threets, suggested to him that Magnus had lost sway over the command staff.